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News & Media

Champion's Luncheon honors those who give of themselves

Friday, May 10th, 2013

By: NEWSChannel 2 Staff

UTICA, N.Y. (WKTV) - A handful of people who usually don't like to be recognized for their good deeds were called to the front of the room Thursday and honored at the Mohawk Valley Community Action Agency's Champion's Luncheon.

The program at the Radisson Hotel in Utica kicked off with a little entertainment as children from the Head Start program sang a song. The event honors those who give back silently, significantly and selflessly.

Community Action serves low income individuals.

"A lot of people are under the myth that poverty doesn't exist," said Darlene Mack-Brown of the Community Action Agency. "They don't want to hear anything about poverty. It exists. It's prominent in this area especially and so that's what our agency hopes to do. Not only help people, but advocate for low income people."

The highest honor was given to Reverend Doctor Maria Scates from Johnson Park for her work as a community activist.

The Community Achiever Award went to Carrie Larock, who overcame poverty.

Craig Minor was presented with the Community Visionary Award.

The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties was recognized as a community builder.